Girls hoops blog | Bob Narang breaks down the Class 3A playoffs

Bob Narang, Special to the Tribune

The Illinois High School Association girls basketball playoffs kick off this week. Another snowstorm has caused many games to be postponed. Here's my take on the Class 3A state tournament. Class 4A predictions will follow Tuesday.

Most intriguing state title matchup among local teams: Montini vs. Joliet Catholic.

Why not try this again? I put these two teams in this same spot last season, but both fell short of the final game. Maybe this is the year. Both teams have lost just two games, with Joliet Catholic's defeats coming to Young and Marian Catholic. Montini has lost to Wheaton Warrenville South and Young.

Toughest area sectional: Lincoln-Way West.

There are several talented teams capable of landing a spot in Normal. Joliet Catholic is the clear-cut favorite, but don't count out Morgan Park, Hillcrest, Bishop McNamara or Brooks.

Best possible regional title game: Morgan Park vs. Brooks.

Morgan Park has something to prove, while Brooks is an up-and-coming team capable of stringing together a few wins in the playoffs.

Easiest route to Normal among local top-seeded teams: Montini.

Vernon Hills is a close second, but the Broncos don't have any potential pitfalls until a possible meeting with upstart Glenbard South in the sectional championship game.

Toughest route to Normal among local top-seeded teams: Joliet Catholic.

This is a tough one to pick, but the Angels could face Providence or Coal City in the regional final, then play Brooks or Morgan Park in a sectional semifinal before facing a hot Hillcrest squad in the sectional final.

Team to watch: Hillcrest.

The Hawks have been a different team since defeating Wheaton North at the McDonald's Shootout. They have an experienced coach and plenty of talented front-court players capable of dominating games. Also keep an eye out for North Chicago.

Revenge match: Vernon Hills vs. Montini, Part III.

A possible state semifinal matchup looms between these two teams. They've split the last two seasons at state. If they meet again, don't be surprised to see Montini coach Jason Nichols to inform his players not to foul free-throw specialist Lauren Webb. The Cougars have won several close games late in the season and are rounding back to their championship form.